Buffalo Spine and Sports Medicine Administration

Executive Director

Maria Gambino

Finance Manager

Margaret Shaffer

Our Patients tell their stories.....

A testimonial to better health

This is the best investment I made coming to your class, better than weight watchers, which i've joined many times., Your class gives the knowledge of healthy eating and how to cleanse without chemicals, I would advise everyone I know to take this class. Very life changing and prolonging your life by eating correctly and not over indulging. I've enjoyed your class and all the information you shared with us, your a Great teacher. Wish I did this years ago, but they say its never too late.....Enjoy this Holiday weekend and see you Tuesday.

C.V.

About 3 years ago I applied for a life insurance policy. I have always been in good health, I’m active and I’m normal weight. I figured I had it in the bag, and I would have my pick of great policies with the lowest premiums. That is until my blood work came back with some mildly elevated liver function tests.

Since I’m a physician I rationalized that my mildly elevated labs didn’t mean much. I didn’t have any symptoms, and I knew the tests didn’t raise any red flags. My primary care doc agreed with me, and so I waited for my insurance agent to shop some policies for me. To my surprise, I didn’t get a single carrier that was willing to give me a premier rate. In fact, I didn’t even qualify for the next tier down. All I was offered was standard policies with ridiculously expensive premiums. Over the life of the policy I was going to have to pay roughly $10,000 more than I expected.

Disgusted at this reality I decided to repeat the labs on my own, and when they came back normal I would submit the counter evidence that everything was ok. Once again, the labs came back abnormal. I made some quick changes to my diet like cutting out all alcohol, and then went to see a hepatologist/gastroenterologist (liver doctor). He repeated the labs again, ordered more tests and an ultrasound exam of my abdomen. Nothing changed and no diagnosis was established. Unable to tell me why my liver enzymes were elevated the doctor agreed to write a letter to the insurance carriers on my behalf explaining the benign nature of the abnormal lab work. He didn’t think my mortality would be affected in any way. In the end, the letter helped a little, and I got one policy that offered me a preferred rate that would only cost me about $6000 more over the life of the plan. I humbly accepted the policy.

About a year later our practice started a nutrition program, The Raw Truth Recharge. The course covers a variety of dietary and nutrition concepts and incorporated isotonic supplements (through Nutrametrix) to promote better health, combat chronic disease, obesity and chronic pain. Since I’m the kind of guy who likes to test-drive any new service we introduce I decided to join my partners and take the course for myself. Four weeks after making some major changes to my diet, specifically, a plant-based whole foods diet, I met with my doctor for my yearly physical. Miraculously, all my liver tests came back normal!

It was a little too late for my life insurance policy, but I had gained something even more powerful. I had made a positive change in my health, without medications, that was accomplished only through dietary changes. I’m now permanently eating a plant-based diet and I feel great. I also have the knowledge that I’m preventing many chronic diseases and dramatically lowering my chances of developing cancer. Much of what I’ve learned I never even learned in medical school. Knowledge like this is not mainstream even though it should be front and center.

The fundamental truths taught in this nutrition program are without a doubt life changing. My philosophy and approach towards patient care and treating patients in pain has changed forever. My partners feel the same way and we are all walking the walk and talking the talk.

I challenge everyone to try it for yourself. Every one of us can make better nutritional choices. Ask us how nutritional education and dietary supplements can change your life. Take the challenge. You won't regret it.

Chiropractic Testimonial

I have been a patient of Dr. David Pizzi for 4 years. I was referred to him by a Dr. at Buffalo Spine and Sports, where I have been a patient for 20 years.

At the time, I was experiencing a hot, burning sensation from my shoulder to my wrist. This was diagnosed as a pinched nerve. Dr. Pizzi used the Graston Technique with small metal bars, rolling them to create pressure in various areas.

I began 3 times a week, then twice and down to once. He made a difference after 3 visits. I had great relief, as this had kept me awake and I was sleep deprived.

I also have great issues with my neck, mostly from computer work and 2 herniated discs. Dr. Pizzi used manipulation in what I learned to be ART (Active Release Technique). He not only eased the tension in my neck, but informed me this would help my TMJ issues. I have worn mouth splints at night since 1971 for ongoing TMJ issues. This stretching of the chin and neck helped me a great deal. I got to the point of not wearing the mouth guard at all.

My lower back issues, also from 3 herniated discs and osteoporosis, have improved a great deal. Dr. Pizzi uses his hands/and feet to work your legs. Almost like a bicycle. It is an amazing type of therapy. He puts all his strength into it, to build you up to the point of pain tolerance and eventually freedom from pain.

Stretching exercises are also part of Dr. Pizzi's plan of action. He slowly introduces new ones to address each area. His goal is always 5 visits to get you back to your baseline, and then maintenance visits as needed. He sets small goals, realistic goals.

He is very patient and listens when you explain about exactly what got you where you are. He reviews x-rays and reports of any tests, MRI, Cat Scan, etc. so as to properly diagnose and treat.

Recently I had a fall in the house and it affected muscles in both legs. I limped in barely able to stand straight. After 3 visits I was 75% improved and on my way to good health.

Dr. Pizzi builds your confidence when you are at the lowest ebb. Pain does that to us... we can't see the light of day and think it's here to stay. IT IS NOT with Dr. Pizzi.

I feel that Dr Pizzi's experience, after completing post-graduate training, and working with patients who have had major surgery, like knee replacements, or herniated disc surgery, or torn rotator cuff surgeries, and with patients in rehab, has prepared him far better than any other chiropractor I have been to.

Dr. Pizzi is so encouraging and uplifting to his patients. He never says anything but positive remarks, no matter how down you get with your journey thru pain. I am pleased he is with Buffalo Spine and Sports Medicine and that I was directed to his care.

Marjorie W.

Prolotherapy Gave Me Back My Life

In 2012 I was in a severe car accident. Over the years I’ve had to have numerous arm surgeries and thought I would have to be on prescription medication for the rest of my life. In fact, I was told I should increase the pain medication and that I would need more surgery over time.

Recently, while I was listening to the radio, I heard an ad about prolotherapy treatment. It was something that I had not heard of, but I thought it might be a treatment option that would work for me. As a patient of Dr. Cicchetti’s, I figured I would make an appointment and ask him if this was something that would work for me. When I went to see Dr. Cicchetti, he was excited to tell me that Buffalo Spine and Sports Medicine had just started offering the treatments. He said it was perfect timing for me – and that I would be a good candidate and I was scheduled for 4 treatments.

Because I wanted to be sure that this treatment worked, I decided to stop all pain medications I was on. When I came in for the first treatment – I was in a lot of pain.

I was very nervous and didn’t want to get my hopes up – as I had tried so many other things in the past, to relieve the pain.

With the first treatment, I had complete relief from the excruciating pain I was in. I could not believe it. I thought my situation was hopeless, that I would be in constant pain for the rest of my life. I have a little boy who is six years old, and I wanted desperately to be the best mom that I could be. Years of pain was inhibiting my ability to actively participate in his life. I was afraid I would be a bystander in my sons’ life as he grew up.

When the pain disappeared, I was extremely emotional. I truly thought I had no other options but to live with the pain. That first treatment, gave me my life back. I am now able to participate in all my sons’ activities including sports. I am so thankful for prolotherapy and Dr. Cicchetti. “I have my life back”.

I would urge anyone who feels like they have no other choice but to live with their symptoms to at least try prolotherapy. Its worth it to get your life back ...especially when you feel like you have no other choice and all hope is lost - know that there is hope and you can be pain free!

Julie F.

A testimonial on Perineural Injection Treatment (PIT)

I struggled for a year with neck discomfort. It got so bad and havingt spasms, it got to where I couldn not roll over in bed, I had to stand up and then lay back down. I was frequesntly going to my chiropractor and he recommended Neural Prolotherapy.

Initially I was skeptical, but it was worth the try as nothing else was correcting the problem. Relief started with the first treatment!!!

With each treatment I had more relief and after the third threatment I went a month with minimal discomfort and using much less over the counter medications.

PIT is an injection, however it was the most mild injection I've ever had.

I would recomment PIT to family members and friends struggling with chronic pain. It's amazing! It's something so simple and it can provide so much relief from pain and discomfort.

Anonymous - December 2016

Perineural Injection Treatment (PIT)

I have been in pain for more than a year. I went to numerous doctors who were trying to come up with a diagnosis. During that time I was taking large amounts of over-the-counter medications, with little relief.

My initial thought about PIT was that I had never heard of it and did not really believe it would work. It sounded too good to be true, but I was willing to try anything at that point. I had to try to get some relief from the constant pain.

My response to PIT was immediate. The same day of my treatment I was pain free for the first time in more than a year. It was like feeling "normal" again. It has helped me sleep better, feel better and be pain free.

Being that PIT is an injection, I would say that PIT feels less painful than most needles. You feel a pinch when the injection is done and that's it!!! I don't think anyone really likes needles, but the relief you feel afterwards from the injection is worth it. I do not need to take pain medications any more!

I would definitely recommend PIT to a friend or famiy member struggling with chronic pain. It has made an amazing difference in my life. It was unbelievable to me how I felt so much relief after receiving the treatment. It truly has been life changing to live without constant pain.

Anonymous - December 2016

Being successful in implementing the appropriate changes to my diet for sustained weight loss results was always challenging for me. In the past I tried counting calories, counting points with weight watchers, and cutting carbohydrates with the South Beach diet. I lost weight temporarily with these methods but constantly felt hungry and low on energy. I longed for good tasting and satisfying food. I decided "diets" were not for me. I was willing to settle for "good enough". Between my work schedule and time with my family I was too tired to attempt to go to the gym and the thought of spending more time cooking or prepping for healthier meals sounded exhausting. When Buffalo Spine and Sports Medicine decided they were going to start offering a nutrition program to provide education on how to improve one's health through proper nutrition I was a bit skeptical but intrigued. I knew it was something I had to experience first hand in order to learn how it was different from other things I had tried in the past. I participated in the full 12 week program. The program was an extremely positive experience for me. I have had incredible results. I lost 15lbs and went down 2 pant sizes during the 12 week program. I feel great and have continued the healthy changes, losing another 5lbs and drop another pant size since officially completing the program. My energy level has increased and I have been motivated to workout on a more regular basis. My family and friends have been shocked by the results and all want to know my secret. Proper nutrition can help you look and feel great. It also helps to treat and prevent diseases including hypertension, diabetes, and coronary artery disease. I recommend anyone who wants to improve his or her health to consider participating in this wonderful program. I hope it changes your life for the better as it has for me!-Dr. J. Joki

To make a donation to the Teen Yoga Camp to benefit Kaely's Kindness, click here:

Classes will build upon each other exploring awareness, a wide range of asanas, and the philosophy of yoga.

Each 90 minute session will involve: • 40 minutes of a moving meditation (asanas), • 5 -10 minutes of mindfulness meditation, • 40 minutes of creativity in the form of: open discussion (Q&A), journaling, poetry, and artwork using different mediums.

Residents / Med Students

Due to a full capacity program, Buffalo Spine and Sports Medicine will not be accepting any new residents or medical students for Clinical Rotations. If you have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]